1. Enjoy an energy-lite lunch

Reheating leftovers for lunch? Save energy and time by using the microwave instead of the oven.

2. Clean up efficiently

Skip the rinse and just scrape foods off your plate before putting them into the dishwasher. You’ll get clean dishes with less waste.

3. Use window coverings

Close curtains and shades to block heat from direct sun on hot days and open them to let in solar heat on cold days. This will help you reduce the amount of energy your heating and cooling system uses.

4. Flip on the ceiling fan

A properly used ceiling fan can keep you comfortable and lower energy costs year round. On hot days, the air blowing on your skin makes the room seem four degrees cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat and use less air conditioning. Switch it to winter mode and you can use the fan to warm the room more evenly and use less energy to heat the space.

5. Let light in

If not exposed to direct sun, open the curtains to light your rooms without paying a cent. Use task lighting if you need more light in a specific spot.

Take advantage of these five tips to make the afternoon a smaller blip on your energy bill.